15 years of accomplishments for the
Chamber’s trade division
A Big Hit! How sports impact
Mobile’s economy

15-18

Cover

The Copeland-Cox Mobile Tennis Center recently hosted
the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Tennis
National Championships. Included in the tournament
were players from Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia,
Ky. (pictured) and other schools such as Fresno Pacific
University in Fresno, Calif., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical
University in Daytona Beach, Fla., and Brenau University
in Gainsville, Ga. See story on page 15.

Ambassador of the Month:
Trish Banker
Business Spotlight of the Month:
Neal’s Electronics
Economic Indicators
Calendar
Member News
Anniversaries
New Members

The Mobile Area
Chamber was awarded
a five-star rating by
the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce, the highest
designation given. Of the 6,936 chambers in the
U.S., only 301 are accredited, and of those only
43 have achieved five-star distinction.
The Mobile Area Chamber has been accredited by
the U.S. Chamber since the designation’s inception
more than 40 years ago.

The Business View | JULY 2012

3

City of Mobile Unveils eMobile
Automated Tax Filing System

T

ired of sacrificing valuable time
away from important business
matters in order to process and fulfill
cumbersome tax obligations required
by local government? Thanks to a new
Internet application recently launched
by the city of Mobile, local sales tax
payments for both the city and county
can now be conveniently processed
online with the simple click of a
mouse.
The innovative system is designed to give businesses an
easy and more convenient way of filing sales tax payments.
All businesses owing taxes to the city and county are now
able to access the new web-based application, eMobile.
Developed by the city’s municipal information technology
department, eMobile provides an intuitive, step-by-step
process allowing businesses to file and pay sales taxes online,
eliminating the need for time-consuming preparation of paper
tax forms and inconvenient trips to Mobile Government Plaza.
With eMobile, businesses pay taxes using an electronic
check. Once a business submits a payment, the information

is routed to a third-party payment processing company.
With this streamlined approach, collecting and processing
tax information and payments is quicker and more efficient,
and reduces the city’s costs.

“Efficiency and easy accessibility are the reasons why
we designed an automated payment system for businesses,”
said Mobile Mayor Sam Jones. “This process should be as
user-friendly as possible. The new eMobile system
accomplishes that goal.” As more and more
businesses become familiar with the system,
Jones added, “We’ll look at other areas where
technology can make it easier and convenient
to do business with the city.”
The system is available to all active
accounts but will require taxpayers to register
to obtain access to the system through a
unique username/password combination.
Customers can still submit payments by mail
or in person.
The city’s website provides links and
instructions for accessing the new application.
Visit www.cityofmobile.org or contact the
city’s revenue department at 208-7462 for
more information.

A new sign and a 24-hour manned security
building make up a new entrance to the University of
Mobile. The university is investing millions of dollars
to update, renovate and add buildings to its campus.

University of Mobile

Enhances Campus
The University of Mobile is adding another new
residence hall, the third with apartment-style living for
upperclassmen. UMobile, as the university is rebranding
itself, is investing more than $8.71 million in capital
investments in 2012 alone, and over an eight-year period
will spend more than $24 million to increase campus
housing and renovate and improve the grounds.
More than half the monies spent were to construct new
residence halls that will house close to 350 additional
students – Samford Hall in 2004, Karlene Farmer Faulkner
Hall in 2006 and the currently unnamed apartments in 2012.
The newest hall measures 39,918 square feet. The
building will be completed in two phases, with one side
finished in time for the fall semester and the other no later
than November.

The University of Mobile is adding new residence halls to meet demand.
Pictured above is the lobby of Faulkner Hall.

What’s driving the growth? Three things, say university
officials: the increasing enrollment, changing needs of
students and the intent to “broaden its reach,” says
President Dr. Mark Foley.
With more than 40 programs of study attracting
students across the board, the university’s Center for
Performing Arts, comprising 21 performing ensembles, is
a big draw, Foley adds.
Last September, the university started the school year
with an enrollment of 1,800 – the fourth consecutive year of
growth. The student population represents 33 states and 30
countries, with Mobile and Baldwin County residents adding
up a little more than half. The highest percentage of students
from outside the United States comes to UMobile from Brazil,
Australia, Canada, Venezuela, Congo, Ghana and Jamaica.

“We’re seeing more local students who want to live on
campus to participate in activities, from service projects
to sports, to a weekly Bible study, to performances and
practices,” explains Kathy Dean, the university’s director
of media relations.
In addition to student housing, the university expanded
Ram Hall, its auditorium and cafeteria; added a security
gatehouse serving as the new entrance to the grounds;
renovated its library; added nursing lab equipment; and
constructed a softball field house, to name a few of the 17
recent projects.
“We have the programs that attract students. We now
have the facilities that attract students. And we have the
environment that integrates learning, faith and leadership
in a unique way that attracts students,” says Dean.

Springhill Medical Center Offers

New Weapon in Fighting
Pancreatic Cancer
N

ew technology at Springhill Medical
Center is helping doctors yield much
more accurate diagnoses when it comes to
pancreatic cancer – the fourth leading killer
of all cancers in the United States.
Traditionally, tissue samples are gathered by brushing
or biopsying the pancreas. The SpyGlass Direct
Visualization System is a minimally invasive approach
available only in Mobile at Springhill.

With SpyGlass, fiber optics pass through a special thin
tube, known as the SpyScope, offering a three-dimensional
view of what doctors want to biopsy.
“We are persistently trying to find new ways to better
care for our patients, and we are proud to be the first in
Mobile to use SpyGlass,” says Jeff St. Clair, president and
chief executive officer of Springhill Hospital. “This
technology is a remarkable addition to Springhill.”
One of the main uses of SpyGlass is to determine whether
blockage in the biliary or pancreatic ducts is malignant or
benign – and, with this new, visually directed technology,

the accuracy of tissue
sampling increases to 80 to
90 percent, says St. Clair. “As with
many cancers, the earlier you diagnose
it, the more likely the chances are for a cure.”
In addition, SpyGlass can be steered to a precise
location to better find the tumor, treat benign conditions
and remove bile duct stones.
The Business View | JULY 2012

5

A Career That Will Take Off
ST Aerospace Training Prepares
the Next Generation of Employees

ST

Aerospace Mobile (STA Mobile) is
ramping up its recruitment and
training process, a move to both meet its
workload and prepare the next generation
of employees.

In an alliance with Alabama Aviation Center of Mobile,
students work in the classroom toward a two-year associate
degree in airframe and power plant (A&P) aircraft
certification. While they’re studying, they work a paid
internship at ST Aerospace Mobile, between 20 and 40 hours
a week. Once they finish, students are practically guaranteed
a job, explains Art Lopez, the company’s aircraft maintenance
training program administrator.
STA Mobile is offering up to 100 percent financial
assistance for the costs of pursuing the A&P degree and
licensing for those who qualify. Other financial assistance
for the program, and for the avionics program, is available
through the Bedsole Foundation, Pell grants and Mobile
Works Inc.
To further ensure success, each student is now assigned
an experienced mechanic as a mentor who provides onthe-job training, according to Lopez.
Four students recently graduated from the program,

and 24 more are currently enrolled – and there’s room for
more. Lopez says the goal is to recruit 25 students each fall
and spring semester. He adds that approximately 85 percent
of those who start the program complete both training and
their two-year commitment to STA Mobile.
“The average age of our workforce is pushing 50, and
we’re seeing the demographics of our company change,”
Lopez says. “We’re trying to get ahead of that by drawing
students into the program.”
Company representatives are visiting high schools in a
150-mile radius to talk to students about a future career in
aviation. But Lopez is also seeing interest from veterans
and men and women pursuing a second career. Many

already have a mechanical background working on cars or
farm equipment, or even in construction, and some are
college-bound, he says.
“To attract more aerospace companies to our area, we
need more A&P mechanics, and it’s a skill that transfers to
anywhere in the world,” says Dr. Leida Javier-Ferrell,
director of the Mobile Area Chamber’s Center for Workforce
Development.
“But if they’re just looking for a job, we won’t take
them,” says Lopez. “This is a career that won’t go away. An
aircraft mechanic will not be replaced by a robot.”
For more information, visit www.stmae.com/careers
or contact Lopez at 438-8888.

Advance Your Career
with an online business degree from a name you know.

Whether you’re earning an undergraduate or graduate business degree, The University of Alabama is
committed to helping you achieve your goals through online learning. Business degrees available include:
• Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration
• Master of Arts in Management with a Global Management Concentration
• Master of Science in Operations Management

To learn more visit
BamaByDistance.ua.edu/mobilebiz
or call toll-free at 1-800-467-0227.
Online degree programs from a name you know.

The Business View | JULY 2012

7

small business
of the month

Business Networking International’s South Alabama and Northwest Florida Chapter has 850 members. Pictured third from right is franchise owner Janice Malone with a
group of chapter officers.

Referral-Based Growth Works for BNI
The name BNI stands for Business
Networking International. But what
you probably don’t know, says Janice
Malone, executive director and Mobile
franchise owner, is that BNI is about
more than networking. “Our program
is about coaching, training and building
your business through referral-based
growth,” she says.
BNI Business Resource Center is
the Mobile Area Chamber’s Small
Business of the Month.
Malone’s first introduction to BNI
was a book. Intrigued, when she got to
the end she picked up the phone and
dialed the 1-800 number to learn
more. From there, she was hired to
develop the area of south Alabama and
the Florida panhandle, working as an
independent contractor.
8

Two years after Malone became
involved, the organization changed its
business model and she bought the
franchise. With three full-time
employees and three contract
employees, BNI Mobile has grown to
850 members in 30 different chapters.
The global organization has a
presence in 44 countries and all 50
states and 138,000 members. Its
mission is to help members build their
business through a structured, strategic,
positive and professional “word-ofmouth” program.
Here’s how it works, explains
Malone: Groups of 15 to 70 members
form a chapter and meet weekly. Only
one person representing an industry
specialty is accepted into the chapter.
Each member brings referrals and
optimally receives referrals, often with

JULY 2012 | The Business View

personal insight on what the potential
client is looking for and the best way to
approach him or her, avoiding cold calls.
What makes it successful?
“Accountability,” says Malone. Leads are
tracked, particularly those that turn into
business. Attendance is mandatory 52
weeks a year, although members can
have substitutes take their place.
“We want farmers in BNI,” she adds,
further explaining that members plant
the seeds for others to grow and
nurture. “It’s not right for everyone, but
we’re seeing remarkable improvement.”
The benefit, she says, really lies in
the training – companies often use
BNI to coach and train new employees.
A few of the typical professional
development sessions include
presentation and leadership, along
with a plethora of workshops, trade

shows and conferences. Other
advantages include increased
exposure, building business
relationships and credibility, all adding
to a member’s bottom line.
Recently BNI enhanced its online
resources offerings so members can
connect with BNI members in other
chapters.
There is a fee to join, as well as
an annual fee. For more information
about the local BNI, visit www.BNIMobile.com or call 438-7050.

Go to mobilechamber.com/award.asp
to submit a Small Business of the
Month nomination, or contact
Danette Richards at 431-8652 or
drichards@mobilechamber.com.

If you think your education’s been
a long road, just imagine all the
places it will take you tomorrow.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S GRADUATING CLASS. At BB&T, we
strongly believe in the power of a solid education and the importance of
learning throughout a lifetime. So to those leaving the halls of academia
behind this spring, we wish you the very best of luck, no matter where your
tomorrows will take you.

ocal companies
participating in the Mobile
Area Chamber’s trade program
created nearly 3,000 jobs and
beefed up international sales
by $143.5 million – and that’s
just in the last five years.

The program, initiated in 1997 by a group
of business owners, the Chamber and the city
of Mobile, celebrates 15 years of impacting
local companies by introducing their products
and services to the international marketplace.
Chamber President Win Hallett was
among that group and played a major role
in the development of the program.
“We met with various trade organizations
that were already established across the
state,” said Hallett. “We knew with all the
international business Mobile would see with
the Port of Mobile, the development of the
container terminal and the general growth
in international business interest, we had to
have a program in place to assist the area’s
trade needs.”
These meetings helped shape the
program’s objectives and create the primary
goals: to further develop the Mobile area
as a center for international trade and
transportation; to enhance the foreign sales
of area products and services; and to assist

The exposure on the
world stage that our
international trade efforts
afford is invaluable. The
ability for local companies
to not only learn about trade
opportunities, but to meet
and conduct business face
to face across the globe
gives Mobile’s economic
development program an
unrivaled advantage.
Troy Wayman, vice president
of economic development,
Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

in Mobile’s emergence as a hub for
international transportation.
Along with developing Mobile as a center
for international trade and transportation,
Hallett said, companies needed help
promoting their products and services in
the international marketplace.
“We noticed that no one was focusing
on bringing Alabama companies overseas
for trade missions, which can play a very
important role in establishing a successful
international business relationship,” said
Hallett.
Over the past 15 years, the trade
division, in conjunction with the Alabama
Department of Commerce (formerly
Alabama Development Office), has led or
co-led more than 50 trade missions to
destinations around the world. (See
information box on page 13.)
The Chamber will co-lead a mission to
Panama and Colombia this fall. For more
information on trade missions, contact
Christina Stimpson, the Chamber’s trade
program manager, at 431-8648.
Along with trade missions, the program
also has a major focus on education and
this month will partner with the U.S. Small
Business Administration and the
Chamber’s small business development
department to host “A Beginner’s Guide to
Exporting” on Tuesday, July 10, from 8:30

Without this program
Alabama Gulf Coast companies
would be without a great
source of exporting
information. Not only do(es)
(the Chamber) provide general
export assistance and host
a variety of export seminars,
but their lead on trade
missions has helped promote
trade across all of Alabama.
These missions produce
contacts and sales for the
companies that in turn provide
more jobs for Alabama.
Nekda Segars, director,
U.S. Department of Commerce,
Birmingham Export Assistance

Trade Mission to China: The Mobile Area Chamber helped coordinate

a trade mission to China in 2008. There were 41 participating organizations
and the result was $23 million in sales.

to 11 a.m. (See page 30 for details.)
“Educating business executives and the
public on the exportation process and the
importance of trade is extremely
important,” said Tony van Aken, director
of the Chamber’s trade division. “A lot of
companies don’t know how much help is
out there to assist them in going global.”
Hired at the inception of the program,
van Aken attributes part of the trade

program’s success to collaborating with
other international trade agencies.
“Through the years, our involvement
with the Export Alabama Alliance, as well
as the U.S. Chamber and the American
Chambers of Commerce in Latin America
(ACCLA), has been beneficial in increasing
the number of companies we are able to
assist in the exportation process,” said
Continued on page 12
van Aken.

The Mobile Area Chamber
of Commerce has always had
a proactive and aggressive
approach in helping
companies export. Their
program has been recognized
both nationally and
internationally and the
work they have done is
immeasurable to the overall
benefit of Alabama exports.
The Chamber has provided
leadership and innovation
in the area of export
promotion and development
not just for their area
but for the entire state.

Over the years, Quality Valve
Inc. has sent representatives
on numerous trade missions
coordinated by the Chamber
and through the state trade
office. In most every case,
we have come home with
a new customer. The
personal relationships
we have made on these
missions have allowed a
level of trust in foreign
companies we would not
have enjoyed otherwise.

The Mobile Chamber’s
Trade Division Celebrates
15 Years Continued from page 11
The Chamber is a founding member of
the Export Alabama Alliance, a seamless
network of international trade agencies in
Montgomery, Birmingham, Huntsville and
Mobile formed to help Alabama companies
grow their business internationally.
Formed of local, state and federal
organizations, the alliance works to
develop and coordinate programs to
facilitate the export of Alabama’s goods
and services overseas.
“In 15 years, Mobile continues to
accomplish what many cities and states
across the country dream of – building an
excellent international trade program that
crosses county and state barriers,” said
Hallett.
The Chamber is a recipient of the
Governor’s Trade Excellence Award and the
President’s “E” Award for significant
contributions in its efforts to increase
exports for Alabama and the United States.
The Chamber is also the 2011 recipient of
the American Chamber of Commerce
Executive’s ACCE “Going International”
Award recognizing the achievements of the
Chamber’s international trade program.

Trade Mission to Australia: In 2009, the Mobile Area Chamber helped coordinate a trip for 11 companies to
Australia. The Chamber set up 42 appointments and the participating representatives gained $4.5 million in sales.

international trade agencies formed to
help Alabama companies grow their
business internationally. Members
include: Alabama Department of

Development Center, Mobile Area
Chamber of Commerce, North Alabama
International Trade Association, Port of
Huntsville, U.S. Department of Commerce,
Birmingham Export Assistance Center,
and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Committed to Alabama.

Committed to you.

At Hancock Bank, we’re committed to serving Mobile with 11 convenient
area locations, most offering extended banking hours. Plus, you can
bank on the go anytime, anywhere with Hancock’s Mobile Banking.
In the future, you can look forward to increased convenience, a
broader range of financial services and a continued commitment to the
communities, like Mobile, that we call home. Find out more about what
the future holds for you at hancockbank.com.

Member FDIC

12 JULY 2012 | The Business View
W12-129_AL_8.5x5.375_v1.indd 1

3/22/12 1:28 PM

Facts About Trade Missions
In just the past five years, trade mission participants
have reported and projected export sales of $163 Million,
supporting the creation of 2,941 jobs.

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Export Sales from Trade Missions
$22.6 M

$37.3 M

$26.1 M

$40.4 M

$37.1 M

Jobs Created from Trade Missions
Trade Mission to Turkey: The Mobile Area Chamber coordinated a
trip to Turkey in 2008. The Chamber secured 58 appointments for eight
local companies, resulting in $1.4 million local sales.

WWW.IFLYMO.COM
Get the information
you need faster at our
redesigned website.
The new IFLYMO.COM offers fast and easy
navigation and immediate access to flight
schedules—ideal for people who want to
go in comfort, style and ease. It’s one of
many ways we are making Mobile Regional
Airport your most appealing travel choice—
whether for pleasure or for business. And
that keeps our economy going strong.
Because the more you FLY MO, the more
our entire community will soar.

FacebookTwitter

14 JULY 2012 | The Business View

A Big Hit!
How Sports Impact
Mobile’s Economy
M

obile is known for Southern hospitality, deep-rooted history and
an enviable location on the water. And now, people are beginning
to take note of the city as a thriving sports destination. Mobile hosts
a variety of sporting events that have a positive impact on the
community. The temperate climate, affordable accommodations and
family-friendly attractions provide an ideal location for players and
fans alike, resulting in multi-million dollar business for Mobile.

Sports = Business

The economic impact of sports is usually looked at in terms of how much spending it
generates. Events like the Senior Bowl, GoDaddy.com Bowl and Mobile Bay LPGA Classic
bring in hundreds of thousands of people to the city annually. In addition to the direct
impact on the economy of spending in Mobile by out-of-town visitors, there is an indirect
impact as the money spent is re-circulated in the local economy by local businesses.
The GoDaddy.com Bowl is played every January at a historically slow time
for the hotel business. The University of South Alabama’s (USA) study of the
2010 game showed an economic impact range from $18.2 to $19.9 million.
The Senior Bowl, featuring the country’s best senior college football
players and top NFL prospects on teams representing the North and South,
is also played in January. A 2007 USA study estimated the economic impact
range between $14 million and $19 million.
“Our first quarter is our biggest every year because of the GoDaddy.com Bowl
and the Senior Bowl,” said Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza
General Manager Kent Blackinton.
But even these numbers don’t tell the whole story. These organizations
host events leading up to the big day. From parades to charity events to
practices, runs and banquets, the economic impact is undeniable.
Continued on page 16

The Business View | JULY 2012

15

A Big Hit!

Continued from page 15

A Sleeping Giant

Even as a program in its infancy, the USA Jaguars
football team can command a game audience of 20,000.
In three years since it was established, the football program
has quadrupled gross advertising dollars surrounding
athletics. The university is in a growth phase, with
enrollment reaching 15,000 – and athletics is a big part
of that.
Gary Saunders of IMG Marketing, the group that
handles advertisers for the athletics program, is excited
about the future. “As we move into Division 1 and face
bigger opponents, we will see attendance increase,” he said.
“Larger schools bring booster clubs, fans and alumni
groups. Games will be nationally televised. It puts USA on
the map with sports fans on a national scale. More national
advertisers will spend money that goes back into the school
and the community.”

More Than Football

While Alabama certainly loves football, Mobile has
much more to offer. With 60 courts at the Copeland-Cox
Center, plus another 15 at additional locations, the Mobile
Tennis Center is the largest public tennis facility in the
nation and makes an enormous contribution to the
region’s economy. For fiscal year 2012, the tennis center
already accounts for 6,836 room nights, and that number
doesn’t account for thousands more who attend
tournaments.
In total, the tennis center brings an estimated

26,000 people to the area annually. According to a USA
report, the economic impact increased from $9 million
in 2004 to $60.8 million in 2011. “This is a growth of
$51 million in seven years,” said Scott Novak,
tournament director.
“We are proud of our increasing impact in regards
to tennis tournaments in Mobile. We continue to add
more each year.”
The Mobile Sports Authority (MSA), one of 110
freestanding sports commissions around the nation,

focuses on bringing competitions to the area. They have
already hosted 20 tennis tournaments this year averaging
40 teams each. “A big part of our business is youth sports,”
said MSA President Danny Corte. “The growth of that
industry over the past 15 years has been phenomenal. And
youth sports are 80 percent recession proof. When a child
plays sports, usually the whole family comes. More visitors
means more money.”

BankSmart

SM

EvEn BEttEr whEn you plan smart
It’s never too early or too late to plan for the future.
Let our Trust professionals help you make
Smart decisions when it comes to:

NOT A DEPOSIT * NOT FDIC INSURED
NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK * MAY GO DOWN IN VALUE

16 JULY 2012 | The Business View

banktrustonline.com
107 saint Francis street

(251) 438-6205

toll Free (866) 328-7887

Competition for Visitors

For example, the U.S. Junior Boxing National
Championships; held in conjunction with the U.S. Olympic
Trials last July; brought hundreds of young boxers to
Mobile, where they fought for the title of Junior National
Champions. The event returned to Mobile last month and
will come back again in 2013. Corte estimates the event has
between a $2.5 and $3 million impact on the city.
Magnolia Grove is one of 11 championship golf courses
on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The Mobile Bay
LPGA Classic, played at Magnolia Grove, brought close to
2,000 visitors in 2011 with an estimated economic impact
of $9.5 million.
Hank Aaron Stadium is home to the 2011 Southern
League Champions, the Mobile BayBears, the AA affiliate of
the Arizona Diamondbacks. The team averages 200,000 in
attendance annually and boosts the local economy with
more than 1,000 hotel rooms per season.
It isn’t just coaches and people cheering on the team,
either. The BayBears bring in the home team staff, the
players, the major league affiliate, visiting Southern League
teams, Southern League umpires and major league/
professional scouts that use products and services while
visiting. The Hank Aaron Childhood Home and Museum is
also on stadium grounds, attracting visitors from 45 of the
50 states. Opened in 2010, the museum is the only one of its
kind in the nation.
More than 3,000 anglers and 75,000 spectators visit
Dauphin Island every July for the Alabama Deep Sea
Fishing Rodeo, the oldest and largest multi-species
saltwater tournament in the country (recently included in
the Guinness Book of World Records). “The rodeo certainly
has a big economic impact on the community, and it’s also

How

Economic
Impact

is Determined

a lot of fun,” said Gene Fox, vice president of publicity for
the tournament. “It’s one of those things that makes Mobile
a great place to live.”
And bass fishermen are taking note: the Mobile-Tensaw
River Delta was just added to the Alabama Bass Trail, a
collection of 11 of the state’s best bass fishing areas. Just one
bass-fishing tournament can bring in more than $2 million,
according to the Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau.

economics professor and author of the Senior Bowl study,
there is no denying that sports equal money for a city.
“What we really need to look at, though, is the diversity of
what Mobile has to offer,” he said. “The community
benefits in so many ways. Sports can build active
communities and empowered citizens, instill a sense of
pride and create excitement, and represent an investment
in well-being and quality of life.”

Race to the Finish

Events by the Numbers

Mobile International Speedway holds 18 races a year.
The largest, an Automobile Racing Club of America race,
brought more than 10,000 spectators and booked 2,000 room
nights earlier this year. This one race had an economic
impact of $1.2 million for the city of Mobile.
Cars aren’t the only things racing in Mobile – the city is
home to more than 80 running events annually. The
largest, the Azalea Trail Run, celebrated its 35th anniversary
this year, with more than 6,000 participants from 29 states
and seven countries. A study done several years ago
estimated that the race represents more than $4 million to
the city. Much of this is direct spending with the city for
police, barricades and emergency personnel.
Racing is an important sport for the city of Mobile not
just economically, but also for charitable organizations.
Many races work hand-in-hand with local nonprofits
raising money for important causes. Peggy Olive of Red
Hen Productions, which produces the Azalea Trail Run and
some 50 other races throughout the year, says one reason
running is so attractive is the social aspect. “Running is a
social sport. It’s something groups and families can do
together and actively participate,” she said.
According to Dr. Christopher Keshock, USA

The Destination Marketing Association International
(DMAI), the visitor industry standard, uses a formula with
the number of participants and estimated visitors. Per DMAI,
the average expenditure is based on accommodations, food,

Sport tourism is the fastest-growing sector in the global
travel industry and equates to $600 billion a year. Locally,
Mobile’s sports facilities and locations play host to multimillion-dollar events.
It’s not just large events that play a role. Countless
tournaments and competitions throughout the year support
the economy. They don’t just bring in players; they bring
coaches, trainers, family members and spectators. This
means more people staying in hotels, eating at restaurants,
shopping in local stores and visiting attractions.
Sports act as an economic driver. It’s an industry that
supports jobs, creates revenue and increases tourism. While
looking at economic impact numbers is impressive, the
media exposure and word-of-mouth generated on behalf of
these events has just as large an impact. According to the
GoDaddy.com Bowl, the fact that the game is the only one
to air the night before the National Championship
guarantees the results will be mentioned on every television
sports segment in the country. Additionally, the game’s
outcome is reported in every U.S. newspaper the next day.
“This is exposure for Mobile that money couldn’t buy,” said
GoDaddy.com Bowl President Jerry Silverstein.
Continued on page 18

retail, fuel and miscellaneous totaling $250 per day. The
Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau then uses a
standard of 2.5 as the number of dollar turns.

Number of visitors per night x number of nights = total number of room nights
Total number of room nights x $250 = total spending x 2.5 = total estimated economic impact
The Business View | JULY 2012

17

How

Money is
Respent

A family of four visiting for a sporting event eats dinner at
a downtown restaurant. The bill is $80, generating a direct
economic impact. The restaurant uses part of that money to
pay the waitress; the waitress spends some of the money for

Looking for a
way to market
your business?
Partner with the Jags in their first full
Division 1-A season! Sponsorship
opportunities ranging from radio/TV,
print, signage and hospitality

Contact: (251) 414-8183 or
brooks.webb@imgworld.com
18 JULY 2012 | The Business View

groceries; the grocery store uses some of the money to pay its
cashier; the cashier then spends some for the utility bill; and
so on. The subsequent rounds of spending are the indirect
economic impacts.

Corporate Apartments/Furniture Leasing & Sales
Corporate Apartments

We offer completely furnished and
appointed one, two and three bedroom
apartments in unique communities throughout
the Gulf Coast and many locations across
the United States.

Anyone who longs for the “good old
days” probably doesn’t own a small
business. Given the variety of powerful,
easy-to-use accounting software products
available today, it’s difficult to imagine
wanting to keep records and prepare
financial statements by hand.
But while technology has eliminated
the need for stubby pencils and green
eyeshades, it’s still up to small business
owners to understand and analyze the
meaning of their financials in order to
make wise decisions.
While there’s no hard-and-fast rule for
reviewing financial data, most experts
recommend a minimum of monthly or
quarterly evaluations. Otherwise, by the
time you find a serious problem, it could be
too late to take corrective action.
Cash flow is a key indicator to watch.
This is the revenue coming into your
business balanced against expenses such

as rent, payroll, supplies, etc. Projecting
cash flow into the future will help alert you
to potential bottlenecks in meeting
payment obligations, and whether or not
you need to make changes in your
collection strategy or operating budget.
Several financial ratios can also help a
small business owner gauge a company’s
health and progress. Because these ratios
fluctuate over time, tracking them will
help you better spot trends that could evolve
into opportunities or problems.
Liquidity ratios measure the firm’s
ability to meet short-term commitments
from its liquid assets. The current ratio
(current assets/current liabilities) is a
simple measure of a firm’s ability to meet
short-term obligations. Similarly, the quick
ratio (current assets-inventory/current
liabilities) measures the firm’s ability to
meet short-term obligations from its most
liquid assets. The ideal average for both

20 JULY 2012 | The Business View

varies from one industry to another.
Leverage ratios indicate the company’s
ability to meet both long- and short-term
obligations, making them particularly
important to bankers and investors. The
most frequently used indicator is the debt
ratio (total debt/total assets). Generally,
lenders want this ratio to be as low as
possible.
Profitability ratios measure how well a
company earns a net return on sales or
investments. Gross profit (gross profits/net
sales) measures the margin on sales –
essentially the overall effectiveness of the
business. Net profitability (net income/net
sales) shows the effectiveness of
management in controlling costs.
Then there are activity ratios, which
show how well a company uses its assets to
generate sales. Small businesses that
manufacture or sell products should
monitor inventory turnover (cost of goods

sold/average inventory), while businesses of
all types should watch their average
collection period (average accounts
receivable/average credit sales per day) to
determine if they are being paid promptly.
The Mobile Area Chamber offers
workshops throughout the year to help
business owners read financial statements
and, beyond that, how to interpret the data
for better management decisions.
Need more help navigating your small
business’s financial numbers? For a free and
confidential one-on-one counseling session,
contact the Mobile SCORE chapter, housed at
the Mobile Area Chamber, by calling 431-8614,
or visiting online at www.score.org.

Washington County

Economic Developer Hired
degree offered to students
The Washington County
that earn and maintain a
Economic Development
certain grade point average.
Initiative (WCEDI) and the
The program helps students
Mobile Area Chamber
earn a master’s degree
named Austin Monk as
quicker than the traditional
the director of economic
route, allowing them to
development. Since 2004,
count approved courses
WCEDI and the Chamber
towards their bachelor’s
have partnered in a regional
and master’s degrees.
effort, and last year the city of
Monk’s education
Jackson joined the alliance.
Monk
includes a master’s and
Ready to dive into his
bachelor’s degree
responsibilities, Monk was
in public administration with a minor in
contacting site selectors in industry and retail
economic and community development;
as soon as he was offered the job, even prior
and an associate’s degree from Wallace
to his actual start date. “I want to get
State Community College.
involved in this community, lock arms and
Recently he worked with the Economic &
continue to build economic development
Community Development Institute at Auburn
activities with our stakeholders,” he said.
University and Alabama Cooperative
A native of Cullman, Ala., north of
Extension System.
Birmingham, Monk was drawn to the
Chatom Mayor Harold Crouch, who
Washington County area because it is similar
to where he’s from with a larger city close by.
leads the WCEDI, said: “Austin’s great work
He is a recent graduate of Auburn
ethic and youthful enthusiasm will benefit
University, and the first candidate to
us greatly. He’s willing to go anywhere and
achieve an accelerated bachelor’s/master’s
do anything. I don’t feel like we could have

He has a remarkable talent for networking
made a better choice.”
and valuable experience with economic
Jackson Mayor Richard Long said he
development related grant work.”
is “excited that Austin Monk has accepted
In his role, Monk
this important position
will work to recruit
that supports the
new industry, assist
economic programs of
“Austin’s great work
existing industries
Washington County
with expansions and
and the City of Jackson.
ethic and youthful
manage programs and
Austin’s education and
enthusiasm will benefit activities aimed at
experience will be a
us greatly. He’s willing
enhancing the area’s
tremendous asset to
marketability,
the members of our
to go anywhere and do
including workforce
partnership.”
anything. I don’t feel like development,
Troy Wayman,
infrastructure and
the Mobile Area
we could have made a
industrial parks.
Chamber’s vice
better choice.”
Monk replaces Jesse
president of economic
Quillen,
who is now
development, said,
Harold Crouch
director
of
economic
“Austin’s enthusiasm
Mayor of Chatom
development
at the
and excellent work
and leader of the
,Columbia
County
ethic combined with his
Wasington County Economic
Florida Board of
education will be an
Development Initiative
Commissioners in
enormous asset for the
Lake City, Fla.
ongoing economic
development efforts of the Washington
County Economic Development Initiative.

Partners for Growth (PFG)
is the Mobile Area Chamber’s
long-term economic and
community development
program. For more information,
contact Shelly Mattingly,
the Chamber’s investor
relations coordinator,
at 431-8655 or
smattingly@mobilechamber.com.

LLB&B Inc. Real Estate is a full-service
real estate company specializing in listing
and selling property, along with property
management, in Mobile and Baldwin
counties.
Why are you located in Mobile?

The company was originally founded in
Mobile in 1986 as Lane, Lyons, Burton and
Bullock Real Estate. Minto and Morrissette
purchased the company in 2003 and began
doing business as LLB&B. As a locally owned
residential real estate agency in Mobile, the
company helps customers find homes of
all sizes and all types.

22 JULY 2012 | The Business View

Why do you support the Mobile
Area Chamber of Commerce’s
Partners for Growth initiative?

“The Mobile Area Chamber is the driving
force for economic development for our
geography,” said Morrissette. “LLB&B
strongly endorses the Chamber’s effort to
bring new businesses to Mobile and to
support existing businesses. We believe a
thriving economy leads to a strong
community. LLB&B has confidence in
Partners for Growth as an impetus to grow
Mobile to its full potential.”
What do you see as Mobile’s
greatest potential? “Mobile has so

many attributes, from the sheer natural
beauty of the area to the many local,
regional and international businesses
located in Mobile, to the exceptional people

who reside here, to the quality of life that
one finds, to the proximity to the water,
and to a climate that allows us to be out
and enjoying everything that our location
has to offer,” said Morrissette. “Mobile is a
great place to live. Mobile is poised to
leverage all of these qualities to continue to
grow and prosper. LLB&B Real Estate
looks forward to being there with Mobile as
it continues to grow and plans on meeting
the future real estate needs of this
community.”
Length of continuous Chamber
membership: 26 years

CEO profile

Dr. John Valentine
Company: Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL)
Title: Executive director
Hometown: Burlington, N.C.
Education: Valentine received a bachelor’s
degree in biology from the University of Texas at
Dallas and a doctorate in marine benthic ecology
from The University of Alabama
First job: Valentine worked for Ecological Services, a subdivision of Texas Instruments in Dallas,
conducting environmental impact assessments at
nuclear power plants throughout the country. During
that time, he was involved in continental shelf characterizations for the Bureau of Land Management.
Previous experience: As a University of
South Alabama marine sciences professor, he served
as associate director for university programs at DISL.
Accomplishments: Valentine was instrumental
in preparing Mobile Bay’s nomination to the National
Estuary Program and has led the work on the role of
the Mobile-Tensaw Delta as it relates to the bay and
the Gulf of Mexico. Most recently, he managed the
distribution of the $5 million grant from BP to the
consortium for rapid response examination of impacts
from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He has authored
more than 50 papers published in marine journals.
Secret to success: “Persistence, constant
re-evaluation of my work, and continuing to study
new developments and innovations within my field,”
he said. “And, perhaps most importantly, listening.”
Brief company description: Founded
in 1971 by the state Legislature, DISL is Alabama’s
marine science education and research laboratory,
with programs ranging from biogeochemistry and
oceanography to systems ecology. DISL primarily
serves the 22 four-year colleges and universities of
Alabama through its college summer courses and
graduate programs. Its educational mission also
includes Discovery Hall programs, encompassing
K-12 field programs, teacher-training and public
outreach, as well as the Estuarium, its public aquarium,
focusing on the Mobile-Tensaw estuary system.

The Business View | JULY 2012

23

Impact Alabama Meets in Mobile

Chamber@work
Committee Learns
About AIDT
The Mobile Area Chamber’s Business
Retention and Expansion (BRE) committee,
chaired by Joe Rella with Austal, set its goals
of targeting issues and current challenges
affecting the manufacturing industry
sector. Ed Castile, director of AIDT, provided
the April committee meeting attendees with
insight on AIDT’s employer workforce
recruitment, screening and training services
for established companies. More than 75
Chamber member businesses participate in
the BRE committee.

Chamber Names New
Ambassadors
Rob Hanner, Edward Jones
Investments; Lillian Stanley, Advantage
Staffing; and Allie Tucker, Mary Kay
Cosmetics, were named new Chamber
ambassadors. Ambassadors are a group of
volunteer members who assist the Chamber
with a variety of projects, including event
registration and member visits, and attend
ribbon cuttings. To learn more about this
group, contact Dawn Rencher at 431-8649
or drencher@mobilechamber.com.

Your Complete
Technology Solution
•

24x7x365 Network Monitoring and Alerting
Your network never sleeps, neither do we

Virtual CIO
We help you integrate business and technology into your business
Call today to learn more

251.650.2231

www. mcgnow.net

24 JULY 2012 | The Business View

Chamber@work
Promoting Oil and Gas
Exploration
Steve Russell, the Chamber’s director
of business retention and expansion, made
a presentation to the Bureau of Ocean
Energy Management at a hearing held in
April in Spanish Fort. Speaking on behalf
of the Chamber’s oil and gas initiative,
OffshoreAlabama.com, Russell advocated
for opening up new areas for exploration
in the eastern Gulf of Mexico to boost
economic growth and sustain the Mobile
economy.
Member Grand Openings
and Ribbon Cuttings
Papa John’s Schillinger Road,
WellNow Inc., Quality Filters, Toni Rials
Photography, Mobile Hearing Center and
Animal Rescue Foundation recently held
grand openings and ribbon cuttings. If
your business is a member and you would
like assistance with planning a grand
opening or ribbon-cutting event, contact
Dawn Rencher at 431-8649 or
drencher@mobilechamber.com.

Chamber Hosts Delegation
from Honduras
The Chamber’s trade division cosponsored a community business lunch
with the Alabama State Port Authority for
a Honduran delegation visiting Mobile
with the U.S. Department of Commerce
International Trade Administration.
Honduran mid-level government and
private business executives met with
local port, trade and private company
representatives about trade opportunities.
OffshoreAlabama.com
Presents at Offshore
Technology Conference
In April, the Chamber’s oil and gas
initiative, OffshoreAlabama.com, coexhibited in a booth with Apex FCC, Gulf
Coast Air & Hydraulics, Horizon Shipbuilding
and Page & Jones at the Offshore Technology
Conference (OTC) in Houston. This year’s
conference was the largest in OTC history,
with more than 70,000 attendees. As offshore
drilling continues to expand, interest remains
high in the Gulf Coast region. Exhibiting
gave the Chamber and OffshoreAlabama.com
partners an opportunity to network,
promote the Mobile area’s capabilities and
learn about new industry technologies.

Chamber Chase, the Mobile Area Chamber’s annual total resource development
campaign, kicked off in May with a volunteer breakfast. During the event, board
members and past Chamber Chase chairs encouraged and challenged volunteers to help
reach the $1.5 million goal. Recognized as top volunteers at the breakfast were (from
left to right) Dawn Bush, Alabama Power; Terri Owler, Arkema; Harris Oswalt, Mobile
Gas; Trish Banker, Regions Bank (retired); Mark Spivey, Regions Bank; Linda Faulkner,
Evonik Degussa; and Kay Williams, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

and general manager of BAE
Systems Southeast Shipyards.
He has worked for the
company since early 2011.
Previously, he was president
and chief executive officer of
Marinette Marine Corp. in
Marinette, Wis., where he was
actively engaged in the sale of
McCreary
the company. Prior to that, he
was executive vice president of VT Halter Marine in Pascagoula,
Miss. As president of Halter Marine, he helped with the sale of the
firm to VT Systems in 2002. McCreary earned a master’s degree
in business administration from the University of Chicago and a
bachelor’s degree in naval architecture and marine engineering
from the University of Michigan. He is a member of several
marine organizations including the Navy League, Society of
Naval Engineers, the American Bureau of Shipping and the
United States Coast Guard Foundation.

David F. Sweet is
regional vice president of
Fresenius Medical Care, a
major provider of kidney
dialysis services and renal
care products. He earned
bachelor’s and master’s
degrees in nursing from the
University of South Alabama
and holds certification in
wound ostomy and
Sweet
continence nurse education
from Emory University. The University of South Alabama
recognized him with the Nursing Leadership Award. Sweet also
served in the U.S. Navy as a mechanical operator aboard a
nuclear submarine, where he earned eight letters of
commendation. He has worked in the medical field since 1993,
leading organizations involved in home-health care and
hospice. He is a member of the Alabama Kidney Foundation
Board and is an active alumnus and supporter of the University
of South Alabama.

For more information about the Chamber’s board of advisors,
contact Katrina Dewrell at 431-8611 or kdewrell@mobilechamber.com.

Ambassador
of the Month

Photo by Jeff Tesney Photography

Board of Advisors

Banker

Trish Banker
Trish Banker refuses to slow down.
“I love being a volunteer. It keeps me active
and in touch with the community,” said
Banker, the Chamber’s Ambassador of
the Month. A retired Regions Bank vice
president, Banker also continues to support
the Chamber actively through Chamber
Chase, the organization’s annual total
resource and membership drive campaign,
and the Chairman’s Circle. She is a 24-year
veteran of the ambassador program
(formerly known as diplomats), and was
named Diplomat of the Year in 1994.

CLIE
mobc

JOB
0040

DESC
Busin

MAT
09/16

PUB(
The B

BUIL
100%

TRIM
8.5 ”

BLEE
NA

COLO
4C

LINE
Maga

LASE
100%

PROO
100%

SPEC
Inform

QUES
Court
251.4

26 JULY 2012 | The Business View
004069-Business View.indd 1

9/26/11 4:49 PM

Chamber@work
Business Spotlight of the Month:
Neal’s Electronics

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s “Spirit of Enterprise” award is given annually to
members of Congress for key floor votes established as priorities by the Chamber.
Senators and House members who support the Chamber’s pro-business positions on at
least 70 percent of designated votes receive the award. The award signifies the Chamber’s
appreciation of those members as strong supporters of free enterprise in America. Sen.
Jeff Sessions was presented with a 2011 “Spirit of Enterprise” at the Mobile Chamber’s
Forum Alabama breakfast on April 30, based on his votes during the first session of the
112th Congress. Pictured at the event are (left to right) Nancy Wall Hewston, Business
Council of Alabama; Moore Hallmark, southeastern regional director, U.S. Chamber;
Sen. Sessions; Bob Chappelle, executive vice-president, Mobile Area Chamber, and
Ginny Russell, vice-president of governmental affairs, Mobile Area Chamber. This is
the 22nd year the U.S. Chamber has formally honored the accomplishments of this
select group of members of Congress. For the 2011 Congressional calendar, both of
Alabama’s senators received the award as well as U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner.

Operating for more
than 23 years, Neal’s
Electronics specializes in
television and home theater
and DirecTV custom
installations and prewires
for new construction. The
store offers Sony, Samsung
and Mitsubishi products at
its two locations, 8125 Jim
McNeil Loop Rd. E. in Grand
Bay and 907-J Hillcrest Rd.
in Mobile.
Pictured is owner Neal
Bailey (back row, center)
with his family, from left
to right, daughter Cynthia
Bailey, wife Virginia Bailey
and son Jeff Bailey in front
of their family-owned
electronic sales and service
business.

The Business Spotlight of the Month is selected at random from a business card
drawing at the Chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event.

Specializing in Tanks, Pipes,
Heavy Equipment and Machinery,
and Over-Dimensional Boats
Serving 48 States and Canada.

The Chamber’s Oil and Gas Task Force presented two scholarships to Mitchell College
of Business students for researching and preparing the task force’s communication and
marketing plan. University of South Alabama students receiving scholarships are Ronnie
Blue and Melanie Lorenz. Representing the Oil and Gas Task Force are Tom Damson with
Long’s Human Resource Services and Steve Russell with the Mobile Area Chamber.

Infirmary Health hosts Great Expectations, a free mother-to-be event in
both Mobile and Baldwin counties. For more information, call 251-435-3500.
www.infirmaryhealth.org/womensbest
Infirmary Health

28 JULY 2012 | The Business View

Expect a more
personal connection.
At Regions, we’re committed to getting to know you and providing
the practical financial solutions you and your business need to thrive.
Whether you’re opening your first business checking account or
planning for long-term financing, our banking experts are dedicated
to understanding your goals and concerns and developing a plan
that meets your needs. Here in Mobile, John Thornley exemplifies
that dedication. Since 1973, he has been committed to serving his
Regions customers and his community. As Senior Vice President for
Business Banking, John puts his years of leadership experience and
understanding of the business community to work for you every day.
Call John or his business banking team at 251-694-1475 or stop by
today to discover everything we have to offer. We’re not just bankers,
we’re trusted friends.

With the 2012 Mercedes-Benz
Sprinter 3500 Cargo Van. This
Sprinter has over 6 ½’ of standing
head room, and can carry over
5,300 pounds of cargo.
We welcome all customers to our
new state of the art dealership
for your sales, service and parts
needs. Nothing but the best Mercedes-Benz of Mobile.

SALES · SERVICE · PARTS

2012 Sprinter 3500 Cargo Van

The Business View | JULY 2012

29

July Calendar of Events
4
10

Chamber Closed -
Independence Day

11

A Beginner’s Guide
to Exporting
International trade is
increasingly important in today’s
economic market, and Mobile is
a prime location for major
exports out of the ever-expanding
Port of Mobile. Learn how your
business can get in on the action
with “A Beginner’s Guide to
Exporting” on Tuesday, July 10,
from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Mobile
Area Chamber, 451 Government
St. Topics will include logistics,
international banking, global
websites and government
assistance.
There is no cost to attend,
but reservations are required
and can be made by contacting
Brenda Rembert at 431-6807
or brembert@mobile
chamber.com.

Networking@Noon

*Members Only

Make 40-plus business
contacts in 90 minutes at
Networking@Noon on
Wednesday, July 11, at Spot of
Tea, 310 Dauphin St., from noon
to 1:30 p.m. Sponsored by
C-Spire, this bi-monthly event is
for Mobile Area Chamber
members and limited to one
representative per company.
The cost is $10 and includes
lunch. Reservations are required
no later than July 9, and can be
made by contacting Dawn
Rencher at 431-8649 or
drencher@mobilechamber.
com. Reservations not cancelled
by July 9 must be honored to
cover the cost of lunch.

For information on Chamber events, visit events.mobilechamber.com.

17

Executive Roundtable

*Members Only

Mobile County Commission
President Connie Hudson will
outline county developments
at this month’s Executive
Roundtable, a monthly forum
exclusively for Chamber member
small business owners and
managers. The group will meet
Tuesday, July 17, from 8 to 9 a.m.
in the Mobile Area Chamber’s
Board Room.
There is no charge to attend,
but seating is limited. For
reservations contact Brenda
Rembert at 431-8607 or
brembert@mobilechamber.com.

27

19

Business After Hours/
Contacts and Contracts
Combining with the Chamber’s
Contacts and Contracts event,
this month’s Business After
Hours provides an even greater
opportunity to introduce your
company and make new contacts
while networking with other small
and minority business owners and
entrepreneurs. Mark your calendar
for Thursday, July 19, from 5:30 to
7 p.m. at Blue Rents, 1601 E. I-65
Service Rd. S. The cost to attend
is $5 for members and $10 for
potential members. Reservations
are not needed.

Eagle Award Application Deadline

The Mobile Area Chamber is accepting applications for its Annual Eagle Awards
and Minority Business Advocate (MBA) Award through Friday, July 27. Eligibility
information and the application can be found on the chamber’s website, www.
mobilechamber.com/awards.asp and may be submitted online or you may call
431-8607 for an application form and return it to the chamber’s Small Business
Development department.
The awards will be presented at the Minority Business Week Luncheon and
Awards Ceremony held October 18, 2012.

30 JULY 2012 | The Business View

Member News
Who’s New
Dr. Stephanie D.
Grosz joined Citrin,
Rihner & Gupta
Cardiology PC. Grosz
is a board-certified
electrophysiologist
and clinical
Grosz
cardiologist with
more than 16 years of experience treating
patients with heart rhythm disturbances.
She earned a medical degree from Baylor
College of Medicine in Houston and a
bachelor’s degree in public policy from
Duke University.
X
William Bender
joined the Principal
Financial Group
as a financial
representative
assisting businesses
and individuals with
Bender
investments, retirement
and insurance. Bender graduated from
The University of Alabama with a
bachelor’s degree in political science.

Hilperts

Massey

Spring Hill College named Jeffrey A.
Hilperts as vice president for advancement
and Margaret G. Massey as chief
information officer. Hilperts has a bachelor’s
degree in psychology from Spring Hill College
and a master’s degree in human services
management from Franklin University.
Massey earned a bachelor’s degree in
economics from Auburn University, a master’s
degree in international business and higher
education leadership from Florida
International University, and a doctorate in
social work from Norfolk State University.
X
Coldwell Banker
United, REALTORS
welcomed agent
Lisa McLeod to the
Mobile office.
McLeod

Mitchell

Thompson

Providence Hospital named William
Mitchell environmental services director
and Bob Thompson facilities management
director. Mitchell previously served in
environmental services leadership at East
Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant,
S.C., and at the University of Mississippi
Medical Center in Jackson. Thompson
brings 25 years of experience in facilities
leadership to his new position. He
previously served as director of engineering
services at Community Hospital of
Monterey Peninsula in Monterey, Calif.,
and supervised facilities and plant
operations at St. John’s Regional Hospital
in Springfield, Mo.
X
The University of South Alabama
College (USA) of Medicine appointed
Dr. David Gremse professor and chair of
pediatrics. He received a bachelor’s degree

in chemical
engineering from the
Georgia Institute of
Technology and
earned a medical
degree from the USA
College of Medicine.
He was the first boardGremse
certified pediatric gastroenterologist in Mobile
and is the first USA College of Medicine
alumnus to be appointed chair of an
academic department at the medical school.
In other news,
Dr. Mike Lin was
appointed assistant
professor in the
department of
physiology at the USA
College of Medicine.
Lin
Lin earned a master’s
of science and a doctorate in physiology
from Loma Linda University in Loma
Linda, Calif.
X
Mona Cooper
joined Prudential
Cooper & Co. as
an associate in its
main office.
Cooper

The Business View | JULY 2012

31

Wilkins Miller
Hieronymus LLC
accounting and
advisory firm hired
Michael Benson CPA
to the firm’s Mobile
office as an accountant
Benson
with a concentration
in audit and tax. Benson graduated from
The University of Alabama with a bachelor’s
degree in commerce and business
administration with a major in accounting
and a master’s degree in tax accounting.
X
Phil Savage, a
Mobile native and
the former general
manager of the
Cleveland Browns,
was named executive
director of the Senior
Savage
Bowl. He is also
currently an analyst for The University of
Alabama football broadcasts on the
Crimson Tide Sports Network, a role that
he will continue to hold. Savage attended
the University of the South in Sewanee,
Tenn., and earned a master’s degree in
physical education from The University of
Alabama.

Ann Sirmon was
named development
director for
Distinguished
Young Women.
Sirmon previously
was owner of PAF
Sirmon
Management, where
she assisted corporations and nonprofit
organizations with event and conference
management. She is a former president of
the Junior League of Mobile and a
graduate of Leadership Mobile.

Business
Endeavors
Sunrise Dermatology’s Med Spa is
open at 70 Midtown Park E. in Mobile. The
phone number is 289-1786.
X
JMF Solutions, a leading fixed wireless
provider for more than 2,400 locations
nationwide, upgraded and expanded its
WaveFly fixed wireless technology in the
Daphne, downtown Mobile and west
Mobile locations to support the growing
residential and business demands for
Internet access. For more information, visit
www.wavefly.com or call 877-WAVEFLY.
X
Valor Steel Buildings acquired Ace
Construction & Steel Buildings of Daphne

Cartridge World of Mobile, an ink
and toner retailer, added printers to its
eco-friendly product line of ink and toner
printer cartridges.

Well Done
Harrietta Eaton,
chief executive officer
of CorroMetrics, was
elected to serve as
vice-chair of public
affairs for the
National Association of
Eaton
Corrosion Engineers
(NACE). Eaton earned a bachelor’s degree
in mass communications from the
University of Montevallo and a master’s
degree in public administration from the
University of South Alabama. She is
currently the chair of NACE’s Mobile
Section and the only Alabamian serving
on the committee.
X
John G. Walton, president/owner of
John G. Walton Construction Co. Inc.,
was named the Alabama Associated General
Contractors (ACG) 2012 president. Mike
Tew, president/owner of S. J. & L. Inc. in
Mobile, was elected vice president.
In addition, Alabama AGC’s Mobile
Section recognized the following Chamber
members for maintaining an excellent safety

record throughout 2011 in the building
division: White-Spunner Construction
Inc.; Ben M. Radcliff Contractor Inc.;
J. C. Duke & Associates Inc.; Case
Construction Co. ; J. F. Pate & Associates
Contractors Inc.; and S. J. & L. Inc.
X
Associated Builders & Contractors
(ABC) recently announced Mobile-based
White-Spunner Construction Inc.
received a Gold Level STEP (Safety Training
and Evaluation Process) award for excellence
in safety practice. ABC established the STEP
program to recognize members who
consistently excel in the field of safety.
X
VIP Nails and Spa was featured in the
May issue of U.S. Nails Magazine for the “Blue
Minx” nail design by Hanh Lisa Nguyen.
X
The $300 million APM Terminal
(Mobile Container Terminals) was
recently inducted into the 2012 Alabama
Engineering Hall of Fame. The state-ofthe-art, deepwater marine terminal offers
containerized cargo shippers a costeffective alternative to accessing global
networks covering all possible trade routes
to and from the port.

EVERY GREAT BUSINESS
NEEDS A GREAT BANK.
COMMUNITY BANK IS HERE TO BE YOUR PARTNER IN BUSINESS.
The best way to start building that partnership is with our Free Business Checking
account specially designed for small businesses that keep low balances and make fewer
transactions each month. With your Free Business Checking account, you get all this:
· No minimum balance requirement
· Free ﬁrst 200 items per month,
25¢ each additional item
· Free basic online banking with the
option to add bill pay or cash
management*

This account and our complete collection of services are all part of our pledge to you that
at Community Bank the success of your business is our business.

CommunityBank.net
*Bill pay fees are $2.95 per month with 30¢ per transaction. Cash management is available online for $9.95 per month. **Subject to approval.

32 JULY 2012 | The Business View

®2012 Community Bank | Member FDIC

Olson

Frazier

Perry

Rogers

Golfos

Klemann

Gaston

Dickens

Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS
honored the company’s top producing agents
at its 2012 Annual Awards Celebration. Top
producers in 2011 were Nickie Olson,
Barbara Frazier, Angela Perry, Barbara
Rogers and Angela Golfos of the Daphne
office and Kyla Gaston of the Mobile office.
Coldwell Banker National Designation
recipients were Angela Golfos and Eva
Klemann of the Daphne office. Kyla Gaston
and Rameh Dickens of Mobile were
named to the Society International
Sterling, or top 20 percent of Coldwell
Banker sales associates worldwide.
Recognized in the Top 15 percent of all
Coldwell Banker sales associates worldwide
and named to the International Diamond
Society were Nickie Olson and Barbara
Rogers of the Daphne office.
X
Public Relations
Council of Alabama
(PRCA) awarded
Dr. Sharee Broussard
APR, assistant professor
of communication
arts at Spring Hill
Broussard
College, the Philip R.
Forrest Professional Achievement Award at
its annual state conference earlier this year.
The award is the highest honor bestowed
by PRCA to an outstanding single
practitioner in the field of public relations.

Smith

Harris

Springdale Travel counselors Debra
Smith and Marty Harris were recognized
by American Express Travel. Smith was
named an American Express Travel Insider
for Student Group Travel. She has more
than seven years of experience with
Springdale Travel leading the student
groups department, in addition to more
than 25 years of teaching experience with
Mobile County Public School System.
Harris was named an American Express
Travel Insider for Cruise Groups. He has
been active in the travel community for
more than 17 years.
X
Sandy Stimpson, chief financial
officer of Scotch Gulf Lumber and former
Chairman of the Business Council of
Alabama, was elected to serve as the
chairman of Alabama Policy Institute’s
(API) board of directors.
X
Bill Trufant, president of B&B Pet
Stop, Inc. was elected to serve on the
World Pet Association board of directors

Red Square Agency was selected as a
2012 Webby Award honoree for its mobile
website design work on behalf of its client,
Full Sail University of Orlando, Fla., in
the Mobile Web: Education and Reference
category. The Webby Awards honor excellence
on the Internet.
X
Two attorneys at Jones Walker Mobile
office were listed in the 2012 edition of
Alabama Super Lawyers. They are Kenneth
S. Steely and Jason R. (“Jay”) Watkins.
X
Dean N. Parker
Jr., founder and chief
executive officer of Callis
Communications, was
selected as a finalist
for the Ernst & Young
Entrepreneur of the
Parker
Year Award 2012,
Alabama/Georgia/Tennessee region. The
award recognizes outstanding
entrepreneurs who have demonstrated
excellence and extraordinary success in
areas such as innovation, financial
performance and personal commitment to
their businesses and communities.

The Business View | JULY 2012

33

Burr & Forman LLP announced 44
attorneys in the firm’s Alabama offices
are included on this year’s Alabama Super
Lawyers list, with two attorneys in the
state’s Top 50 Super Lawyers list and two
attorneys in the state’s Top 25 Women
Super Lawyers list. An additional 25
attorneys were recognized on the Alabama
Rising Stars 2012 list, bringing the total
number of Burr & Forman attorneys
recognized in Alabama to 69.
X
Two Masland Contract/Masland
Carpet designs, Emblem and Torque
Modular, were recognized at the Antron
Design Awards for their innovative design
and versatility.
X
VERGE, a full-service advertising and
marketing boutique won awards from the
American Advertising Federation (AAF) and
Public Relations Council of Alabama
(PRCA). The firm received a Gold ADDY from
AAF Mobile Bay for the logo created for
Cadence120 Bicycles and two awards from
PRCA, a Medallion Award for USA Mitchell
Cancer Institute’s Celebrate Hope and
received an Award of Merit for
Compassionate Hearts for Ichihara.
In addition, Laura Burton, principal
at VERGE, was awarded the Harry Hoile
Former Governor’s Award, from AAF.

Community News
Mobile Bay Convention and Visitors
Bureau announced the local tourism and
hospitality industry helped employ 15,000
people and host 2.4 million visitors,
according to the latest statistics available.

In addition, travel-related spending totaled
$850 million, and lodging taxes collected
garnered $3 million for the city of Mobile
and $1.8 million for Mobile County.
X
Airbus Corporate Foundation gave
the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science
Center a second $50,000 grant to expand
its first-year youth mentoring and
aeronautics pilot program designed to
inspire disadvantaged children and young
adults through aviation.
X
According to United Way of Southwest
Alabama, more than 400 volunteers from
area businesses and organizations gave an
estimated 3,500 hours to the communities
of Mobile, Washington and Clarke counties
during its annual Day of Caring.
X
Mobile United received a $15,000
social impact initiative grant from The
Community Foundation of South Alabama
for “Mobile in Black & White: Race
Relations in the 21st Century,” a program
designed to address issues of structural and
institutional racism through a series of
conversations and meetings.

CONNECT
with the Chamber

Like us.
facebook.com/MobileChamber

Join us.
linkedin.com
Group - Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce

Follow us.
twitter.com/MobileChamber

Watch us.
youtube.com/MobileChamber

Submission deadline for Member
News is two months prior to publication.
News releases should be one or two
brief paragraphs. Photos must be
professional headshots, labeled with
the person’s last name, and must be
300 dpi at full size and saved in an eps,
tif or jpg format. Send your information
to news@mobilechamber.com.

merce
hamber of Com
Mobile Area C

2012

the

Partners for Environmental Progress
(PEP) awarded its 2012 PEP Community
Partner Award to Project CATE (Conservative
Action through Education) Foundation in
recognition of its 20 plus years of providing
award-winning environmental
conservation educational materials.
PEP also awarded its eighth annual
PEP Environmental Stewardship awards to
six member companies and a community
partner at its annual membership meeting.
Chamber member companies are
Alabama Power, Plant Barry, BASF,
Hargrove Engineers + Constructors,
SSAB, Volkert Inc. and White-Spunner
Construction.
X
The University of South Alabama
student health center was recently granted
a 3-year accreditation by the Accreditation
Association for Ambulatory Health Care
(AAAHC). The student health center is the
only AAAHC-accredited center in Southern
Alabama and one of only two in Alabama.

JULY

VIEW

Three for

Contact René Eiland to discover how advertising
in The Business View can complete your
marketing plan at 251.431.8635 or e-mail
reiland@mobilechamber.com.
www.mobilechamber.com/view/media_kit.pdf

Cheers

Sports!
City Unveils

eMobile
Online t
Tax Paymen

Trade Program

Celebrates

15 Years

34 JULY 2012 | The Business View

The Business View – an easy and
economical way to get your
company in front of the Mobile
area business community.

believe in mobile
belong to the chamber
backed by more than 175
years of business advice
The Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce has been around
for more than 175 years, so we’ve had time to build a
reputation as the area’s most trusted source of business
information. National studies have shown businesses
and consumers are much more likely to think favorably
of a company that belongs to a chamber of commerce
and 63 percent more likely to buy goods and services from
chamber members. Chamber membership does more than
add credibility and boost your image in the community,
it shows you believe in Mobile and are working to build
a stronger future for our area. Belong to the Chamber
– because it’s good for business and good for Mobile.